"Take a deep breath for me, Lena," Karl said.

Lena nodded and inhaled slowly, filling her lungs to their capacity. The metal disc of the stethoscope was cold against her back, but Lena tried not to complain. In truth, she was very grateful that Karl had been caring for her.

"Now exhale very quickly...almost like you're trying to cough," Karl said.

Lena rapidly released the air, and her body shook with faint coughs once her lungs were nearly emptied.

Karl removed his earpieces and wrapped his instrument around his neck. Lena pulled down her pale blue lace dressing gown, one of the many fine, unworn pieces that had been purchased...